The Montessori Method in International Schools: Why Saint Maur, Seisen, and Others Adopt It, and Its Synergy with the IB

It's well-known that the founders of Google and Amazon were Montessori educated, but did you know that many of Japan's most historic international schools, particularly prestigious ones in the Yokohama and Tokyo areas, have also adopted the Montessori method for years?

For those who imagine international schools are all about rigorous English study, a Montessori classroom, which can look like children are just playing with toys, might seem a bit unusual. However, there is a clear strategic reason why these traditional schools with strong academic track records choose this method.

It's because a Montessori education in early childhood provides the strongest foundation for developing the qualities of a future 'IB (International Baccalaureate)' student and 'global leader.'

This article, with examples from Saint Maur International School and Seisen International School, explores why the Montessori method is such a good fit for the international school curriculum.

1. Three Reasons Why International Schools Choose Montessori

The adoption of the Montessori method in the Early Years programs of many international schools is not just a trend. It is because the following three elements align with the educational philosophy of international schools.

① Fostering 'Student Agency'

International schools value students who can think and act for themselves, not just those who listen to the teacher. In a Montessori education, children choose their own 'Work' for the day. By gaining experience learning through their own intrinsic motivation rather than adult coercion, 'Student Agency,' a cornerstone of international education, is naturally cultivated.

② The Social Benefits of Mixed-Age Classrooms

Montessori classes are composed of mixed-age (multi-age) groups, typically from 3 to 6 years old. In this setting, a cycle is created where older children teach younger ones how to use materials, and younger children learn by looking up to their older peers. This environment is a microcosm of an international school, where students from diverse backgrounds come together. Children learn 'leadership' and 'respect for others' through direct experience from a young age.

③ Compatibility with Second Language (English) Acquisition

In fact, for children who are non-native English speakers (EAL students), the Montessori environment is ideal for language acquisition. A traditional classroom style, where students just sit and listen to the teacher, can be distressing for a child who doesn't understand English. However, Montessori is characterized by hands-on learning using the 'five senses,' making it easier to understand concepts beyond language barriers. Children can naturally absorb practical English in a real-life context, such as practicing pouring actual water while saying, 'Water, please.'

2. The Ultimate Combination: The Synergy Between Montessori and the IB (International Baccalaureate)

Some parents may worry, 'If my child is just playing in Montessori, will they be able to keep up with academics in elementary school and beyond?' However, from an educational perspective, it is said that 'Montessori is the optimal preparation for the IB (International Baccalaureate).'

Common Ground: 'Inquiry-based Learning'

Both Montessori and the IB emphasize 'asking questions and inquiring' rather than 'cramming knowledge.' Children whose curiosity and 'why?' questions are nurtured in Montessori can smoothly adapt to the 'Units of Inquiry' that begin in the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP).

The Connection Mechanism: How Autonomy Transforms into Research Skills

In Montessori 'Work,' children repeat a cycle of choosing their own materials, concentrating on the task until they are satisfied, and finally putting everything away. This entire process forms the foundation for the 'long-term project management' and 'research skills' required in the IB Middle Years Programme (MYP) and Diploma Programme (DP). Students with a Montessori background, who are accustomed to planning and executing tasks independently, tend to be more resilient in tackling the rigorous demands of the IB.

3. Case Studies: Two Major Traditional Schools in Yokohama and Tokyo

Let's look at some representative international schools that have actually implemented the Montessori method.

Saint Maur International School

Located in Yamate, Yokohama, this is the oldest international school in Japan.

• Features: It was one of the first schools in Japan to introduce the Montessori method and offers a Montessori program for children from 2.5 to 5+ years old.
• Educational Philosophy: With a background that also includes French educational culture, it positions Montessori as the 'gateway to lifelong learning.' It collaborates with the 'École Française' located on the same campus, promoting autonomy in a multicultural and multilingual environment.

Seisen International School

A Catholic girls' school in Setagaya, Tokyo (the kindergarten is co-educational).

• Features: The Kindergarten program offers a unique curriculum that blends the Montessori method with the IB PYP (Primary Years Programme).
• Educational Philosophy: Based on Catholic principles, it nurtures a caring heart and a spirit of service through Montessori's emphasis on 'silence' and 'disciplined freedom.'

4. What Kind of Child is a Good Fit? How to Assess at Home

While it is a wonderful educational method, it may not be a perfect fit for every child from the very beginning.

Children Who Tend to Thrive

• Highly Curious: Children who like to decide for themselves, 'I want to do this!'
• Able to Concentrate: Children who can immerse themselves in a single activity (like blocks or drawing) for a long time.
• Loves Order: Children who prefer a calm environment, such as putting things back in their designated place and following a sequence.

Children Who May Need Time to Adjust

• Tends to Wait for Instructions: Children who constantly ask adults, 'What should I do next?'
• Loves Competition: Children who are used to extrinsic motivators like 'a reward for being first' (Montessori does not use rankings or sticker rewards).

Conclusion: Montessori is an 'Investment in the Future'

The Montessori method in international schools is not just another form of early education. It is a strategic 'ignition period' for cultivating the ability to think, inquire, and find answers independently—skills that are essential for the IB programme later on.

For families considering admission to Saint Maur or Seisen, understanding this 'educational style that fosters autonomy' and supporting your child's 'power to choose' at home will lead to a smoother transition and growth after enrollment.

For International School Admissions and Tutoring, Choose 'ELT'

At ELT, native-speaking instructors who are deeply familiar with the curricula of prestigious international schools like Saint Maur and Seisen will support your child's English language development. If you want your child to acquire the English skills needed to thrive in Montessori and IB inquiry-based learning, we encourage you to sign up for a free trial lesson.

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